Nepalese tourism from the lens of residents: An assessment of impact perception, attitude, and action towards tourism development in Gandaki province, Nepal.

This article examines local residents' perceptions, attitudes, and support toward the tourism industry in three popular destinations—Pokhara, Ghandruk, and Ghorepani—in Gandaki Province, Nepal, to assess factors influencing sustainable tourism development. Using a survey of 600 residents, the study found that despite some concerns, most residents perceive the socio-economic and cultural benefits of tourism to outweigh its costs and generally support further tourism promotion. However, support varies by proximity to core tourist areas and direct involvement in tourism, with those farther away or not benefiting showing reluctance, highlighting inequities in benefit distribution. The findings suggest that involving diverse local groups in tourism planning and policy-making, while addressing environmental and social concerns, is essential for the long-term sustainability of tourism in the region and may inform similar efforts across Nepal.